Month: August 2024

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan: 41 OFWs completed the Tourism Kulinarya pilot training under the Balik Bayani Sa Turismo (BBST) program conducted on August 7–9 at Sison Auditorium here.

The graduates are from the municipalities of Anda, Burgos, Bugallon, Calasiao, Infanta, Labrador, Lingayen, Manaoag, Mangaldan, and Sta. Barbara. They were awarded certificates and cash incentives amounting to P10,000.00 during the closing ceremony.

The BBST Culinary Training is part of the national government’s reintegration program aimed at boosting livelihood and income opportunities for modern-day heroes and their families.

ASEC Maria Rica C. Bueno, TRCRG, DOT, said that the President, along with DOT Sec. Christina Garcia Frasco and DMW Sec. Hans Leo Cacdac recognizes the contributions of OFWs to nation-building.

Thus, the DOT, in collaboration with DMW, launched the BBST program.

It provides capacity building and skills training to returning OFWs and their families, offering them new opportunities in the travel and tourism industry.

“The overall objective of all the training programs of the agency is to uplift or improve the quality of tourism services and facilities in the country,” ASEC Bueno added.

Pangasinan was chosen as a pilot area for the 1st BBST Kulinarya Training Program because it garnered the highest number of respondents.

Kulinarya, or culinary, was the top choice, followed by micro-retail, tour guiding, farm tourism, and homestays.

The training program promises numerous advantages, including the creation of alternative livelihoods for families, the growth of a skilled workforce for the economy, and enriching tourism experiences through unique culinary offerings.

As such, it is with high hope that through the BBST program and Tourism Kulinarya training, Pangasinan will emerge as one of the best food destinations in the Philippines.

“When you left the Philippines, you were all considered our bayanis, but, all the more, you are a bayani coming back to the Philippines, Governor Ramon Guico III said.

The governor commended the DOT and DMW for launching the program.

Similarly, the provincial government of Pangasinan, through the Pangasinan Migration and Development Council, has come up with the Volunteerism Awards for Outstanding OFW Associations and Overseas Filipinos (OF/Ws) Family Associations in the province entitled ‘BOLUN Awards’ aimed at recognizing the selfless service and dedication of these associations in promoting the welfare of OFWs and their families within the province as well as their exceptional and extra-ordinary contributions of OF/W Family Associations in the implementation of the province’s programs and services through volunteerism.

The event was graced by Dir. Arlene A. Alipio, OIC Director, DOT-OIMD; RD Joseph Francisco “Jeff” R. Ortega, Regional Director, DOT-Region 1; Labor Attache Delmer R. Cruz, OIC Director, DMW-NRCO; RD Romeo A. Jaramilla, OIC-Regional Director, DMW Region 1; Lingayen Mayor Leopoldo Bataoil; PTCAO Chief Maria Luisa Amor Elduayan; PESO Manager Ma. Richelle M. Raguindin; and Chef Ellen C. Rivera, ASEAN Master Trainer Assessor, among others.

(Chona C. Bugayong, Orlan Llemos, PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—Governor Ramon V. Guico III was listed by Edurank.org as among the ‘Top 79 Notable Alumni of the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman.’

The governor joins the ranks of the country’s most revered personalities, like former President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, Sr., who topped the list, followed by former Vice President Leni Robredo, 6th Philippine President Elpidio Quirino, ace journalist Maria Ressa, politician Jose P. Laurel, lawyer and former Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, musician Ely Buendia, broadcast journalist Jessica Soho, actor JM De Guzman, and beauty queen Venus Raj.

EduRank is a reputable independent organization that evaluates higher education institutions all over the world based on various factors like academic reputation, research output, and student reviews.

The list was sorted out by Edurank based on wiki pages popularity of the alumni.

Listed in the 11th to 25th spots were news anchor Karen Davila; Senator Cynthia Villar; Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III; former Vice President Salvador “Doy” Laurel; Lawyer Salvador Panelo; actor-politician Herbert Bautista; young actor-entrepreneur Nash Aguas; Fil-Am chef Cristeta Pasia Comerford; beauty queen Shamcey Supsup; Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia; independent film actress Mercedes Cabral; former associate justice Antonio Carpio; Senator Nancy Binay; screenwriter and journalist Ricky Lee; and film director Jerrold Tarog.

Gov. Guico clinched the 61st spot.

UP Diliman is ranked 625th in the world, 125th in Asia, and 5th in the Philippines by aggregated alumni prominence. The university was established on February 12, 1949.

Gov. Guico obtained his degree in philosophy at UP Diliman in 1997 and earned his certificate in professional education and his master’s degree in education in 2004. (Ruby F. Rayat/PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—The Provincial Government of Pangasinan made an assurance that executive measures would be strictly implemented to control the entry of swine into the province.

This developed after positive cases of African Swine Fever (ASF) were reported by the Department of Agriculture (DA) Ilocos Region in two towns and a city in a nearby province.

Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Arcely Robeniol stated that Pangasinan remains ASF-free.

Aside from border control, Dr. Robeniol said that Executive Order No. 0102 S. 2023, titled “An Order Extending the Temporary Total Ban on the Entry of Live Swine/Pigs, Pork, and Pork By-Products from All Cities and Municipalities Under Red Zone Into the Province of Pangasinan, signed by Governor Ramon V. Guico III on October 1, 2023, remains in effect to date.

“We are proactive in ASF control measures at ito nga po ‘yong paghihigpit at pagpapatupad ng ating existing executive order,” she cited.

Hence, the provincial veterinarian stated, “We have to protect and secure our province,” even as she mentioned that strict monitoring is undertaken at all animal quarantine checkpoints in Pangasinan, which are strategically located in Mabilao, San Fabian; Asan Sur in Sison; TPLEX Pozorrubio; and TPLEX Urdaneta City.

Dr. Robeniol said traders’ documents are thoroughly assessed before a certificate of acceptance is issued.

Documents to be presented for live animals include a certificate of ASF-free status; an ASF negative result; a veterinary health certificate; a veterinary shipping permit; a livestock handler’s license; and a livestock carrier license, among others.

On the other hand, a certificate of meat inspection should be presented for swine products.

(Ruby F. Rayat/Ron Edrian Bince PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—Thirty-three recipients of the Government Internship Program (GIP) received from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) the sum of P8,400.00 each for work or services rendered for 30 days.

Sheryll J. Bringas, SWO II, DSWD Field Office—I said GIP is one component of the Unlad Kabataan Program exclusively for in-school youth.

As such, this will allow them to work for the government with subsidies that they can use for educational and family needs.

The GIP is conducted every summer to enable students to participate for 30 days.

During the GIP evaluation held on August 6, GIP beneficiaries shared their testimonies about their learning experiences.

Michael Angelo C. Cardano, a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics student, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be included in the GIP.

“For the past 30 days na nagtrabaho kami sa MSWDO-LGU Anda, ang dami naming natutunan. Dapat habaan mo yong patience mo. You should not only be mentally stable and ready but also emotionally ready. The 30-days na experience became so soon kasi, super supportive ng MSWDO-Anda. Hindi mo mapi-feel na GIP ka lang bagkus, isa kang member ng office na yun,” he said.

Other GIPs shared that they have learned how to interact with others, the value of patience and understanding, improved knowledge and confidence, the importance of confidentiality, and enhanced their communication skills, among others.

‘Very thankful ang MSWDO ng Calasiao sa DSWD sa binibigay nilang GIP slot. Thankful din kami na may program na ganito na nagbibigay ng opportunity sa ating kabataan na iniinvolve natin sila sa work experience sa ating government agencies. We are looking forward to more activities na kasama ang ating GIPs,’ King Arrvi Gaspar, Social Welfare Officer III/Youth Focal Person from LGU Calasiao, said.

Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Annabel T. Roque likewise conveyed her gratitude to the DSWD Field Office I.

“We are happy and blessed kasi naging part po kayo ng GIP this year. Kung ano po yong natutunan ninyo, we believe na mababaon niyo yan as you journey pa throughout your school years. Enrich more of what you’ve got, samahan ng tiyaga, samahan ng maraming dasal, and enjoy na lang ang life kasi, life is beautiful, especially sa mga edad niyo na napaka-challenging ng mundo pero alam ko na napaka-vibrant ninyo. Tulad ng laging sinasabi, kayo po ang pag-asa ng ating bayan,” Roque added.

Roque added that preparations are being undertaken for the Linggo ng Kabataan celebration this month of August.

She also shared the good news about the Pangasinan Polytechnic College (PPC), which is the very first college institution in Pangasinan that is operated and managed by the provincial government under the leadership of Gov. Ramon V. Guico III.

“This is all for the love of the governor for the youth,” she further said.

(Chona C. Bugayong, Orlan Llemos/PIMRO)

Lingayen, Pangasinan—In achieving the provincial government’s thrust to deliver the best health care services for more than 3.1 million Pangasinenses, the improvement of all health facilities, the acquisition of new state-of-the-art medical and laboratory equipment, and the hiring of more medical personnel were directed by Governor Ramon V. Guico III.

Thus, on August 5, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) approved a resolution endorsing to the Department of Health (DOH) the application for a Permit to Construct (PTC) a three-storey building for Level II Hospital with a 100-bed capacity at the Lingayen District Hospital (LDH).

Dr. Aurelio Carino, during the regular session, said the bed capacity for LDH is 40, but the recorded number of patients per day is about 100 to 110. Hence, the need to increase the facility’s bed capacity is needed to accommodate more patients and cater to the medical needs of the sick and less-privileged Pangasinenses.

“The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through the LDH, intends to construct a 3-storey building for Level II Hospital with a 100-bed capacity to provide the people with a sufficient and higher level of medical and health services,” the resolution, which SP Member Dr. Shiela Marie F. Baniqued stated.

LDH is one of the 14 hospitals operated by the Provincial Government of Pangasinan which caters to patients from the different municipalities and nearby localities of the 2nd District of Pangasinan. Aside from leveling up, a hemodialysis center is being built in the hospital.

Earlier, Dr. Racquel S. Ogoy, Medical Officer III, Provincial Hospital Management Services Office, said the provincial government intends to put up hemodialysis centers in all district and community hospitals in the province.

The provincial government likewise continues to allocate funds for the construction, repair, rehabilitation, and maintenance of hospital buildings.

It can be recalled that in his State of the Province Address (SOPA) in 2023, the governor cited that all 14 hospitals run by the province increased their authorized bed capacity, bringing the total outpatients and inpatients served last year to 468,122 and 111,631, respectively.

Aside from the improvement of facilities, another worth mentioning was the successful implementation of the Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) from 2022 to March 2024, wherein a total of P383,816,375.51 in funds were transferred to Pangasinan during that period.

Gov. Guico is set to enter and sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the DOH-Center for Health Development-1 for the implementation of the MAIFIP program in all 14 government hospitals.

With Pangasinan Provincial Hospital in Bolingit, San Carlos City, receiving the biggest bulk of more than P7.6 million, all 13 hospitals will get a share of P2 million each.

(Ruby F. Rayat | Photo by Omar Cruz)

Lingayen, Pangasinan—In preparation for the upcoming Manila FAME, a product presentation and product development activity was conducted on August 5 at the Provincial Training and Development Center 1 (PTDC 1) here.

The undertaking was aimed at finalizing the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) who will join the Manila FAME 2024 and briefing them on the possible product design development with the help of the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP).

As such, the DCP team assisted some 13 MSMEs in the evaluation and assessment of their products and will conduct factory visits of identified MSME exhibitors, product development, as well as booth designs and construction, scheduled from August 6–8.

The 13 participants include Crafter’s Joy Cornhusk Products; Kawayan Nature Eco-Friendly Products Training; Ilokana Handicraft; Deswordzman Metal Crafts; Bandulf Industries; DOREVI Industries; Cassidy’s Souvenirs; Laoang Loofahcraft; Denmark Candle; CSFirst Green Agri Industrial Development Inc.; Aguinaldo Interiors; E-Kawayan Factory; and the Farmers Development Agricultural Association.

This is Pangasinan’s second participation in the global trade show. The awesome potential of Pangasinan’s artisans was initially unleashed through the World Trade Expo in 2023, while the local culinary pioneers made their mark during the International Food Expo 2024.

Dr. Arlyn Grace V. Guico, Founding President of Project Abound, the project’s prime mover, said that they are looking forward to an even more fruitful collaboration this year after the resounding success of Manila FAME last year.

As her piece of advice to MSMEs, Dr. Guico was quoted saying, “As you embark on your venture, always remember to have our Lord, Jesus Christ, with you by keeping Him in your heart and seeking His guidance. He provides everything—even ideas, skills, knowledge, wisdom, and more—to success, so start rightly your story now.”

Wrapping up her message, she congratulated and thanked the consolidated force of government and non-government agencies for standing in solidarity to empower the artisans and food technologies in Pangasinan.

Meanwhile, Vice Gov. Mark Ronald Lambino assured the provincial government and the governor’s commitment to ensure that Pangasinenses will be provided with the opportunity to improve their lives.

“Kami po na inyong lingkod bayan, andiyan po yong obligasyon naming magsilbi, mag provide ng mga programa at proyekto sa ating mga kababayan, pero hindi natin pwedeng kalimutan na hindi lamang po puro ayuda o infrastructure projects and ibinibigay sa kanila kundi, tayo rin po dapat ay nagbibigay ng suporta upang sila mismo ang makatayo sa kanilang sariling mga paa,” the vice governor said.

On the other hand, Gov. Guico, who was represented by Provincial Legal Officer Baby Ruth F. Torre, conveyed the province’s support for the engagement of MSMEs as major drivers of the economy.

It can be recalled that after the success of the Manila Fame and International Food Expo, which signaled the green light to brighter opportunities for various local entrepreneurs, the governor sought the establishment of the Pangasinan Trade Center (PTC).

Through the PTC, Gov. Guico foresees not only success for MSMEs but economic prosperity and sustainability for the province, leading to the realization of becoming an investment hub.

DTI Provincial Director Natalia Basto-Dalaten, 3rd District BM Sheila Baniqued, DCP Project Manager Nicole Carmel D. Obong, and department heads from the various provincial government offices, among others, graced the undertaking.

(Chona C. Bugayong, with reports from Rich Majin/PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP), in its regular session on August 5, approved a resolution authorizing Governor Ramon V. Guico III to execute a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and Deed of Donation with the Philippine Center for Post-Harvest Development and Mechanization (PHILMECH) for the provision of various farm machinery and post-harvest facilities in support of the province’s Corporate Farming Program.

Authored by SP Member Nicholi Jan Louie Sison, the resolution stated that agricultural mechanization and adoption of post-harvest technology will improve farm work efficiency, help maximize yield, reduce post-harvest losses, and maintain product quality, resulting in increased yield and profitability.

Corporate farming is the brainchild of Gov. Guico. It was implemented to enhance food production and make farming a profitable and sustainable economic enterprise in line with the national government’s food sufficiency thrust through the Masagana Program for Agriculture.

“Pangasinan’s Corporate Farming Program Convergence Strategy endeavors to demonstrate food production cost efficiency through a farm consolidation approach, increase production yield by optimum utilization of production inputs, farm machinery, and the adoption of a package of technologies (POT), and rekindle the Bayanihan spirit among agriculture stakeholders, particularly LGUs and farmer cooperative associations (FCAs),” the resolution disclosed.

The agricultural provisions included in the Deed of Donation include one unit of a four-wheel tractor; one unit of a rice combine harvester; two units of riding-type mechanical transplanters; six units of walk-behind transplanters; two units of rice mills; and two units of a mechanical recirculating dryer.

Provincial Agriculturist Dalisay Moya said 23 municipalities are now involved in corporate farming. At present, about 685 farmers and 25 farmer cooperatives are benefiting from the program, which now covers about 650 hectares of agricultural land.

PHILMECH is an agency attached to the Department of Agriculture (DA), which is mandated to implement projects geared towards agriculture modernization and post-harvest technology development through the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF).

(Ruby F. Rayat, Joey Olimpo/PIMRO)

Lingayen, Pangasinan—Binmaley beauty Miss Patricia Anne Nichole Bangug, who was crowned “Heritage Ambassador 2024’ during the recently concluded Miss Pearl of the Orient Philippines Beauty Pageant held at the Tanghalang Pasigueno last July 27, was awarded a plaque resolution by the Pangasinan Provincial Board on August 5.

“The Province of Pangasinan takes immense pride in celebrating the exceptional achievements of its representatives in the world of pageantry, who exemplify beauty, intelligence, and cultural heritage on both the national and international stage, the resolution, authored by Board Member Haidee Pacheco, partly stated.

Miss Bangug, who was previously crowned Bb. Binmaley 2019 and Limgas na Pangasinan Turismo 2019 is the daughters of Diosdado and Mirasol Bangug.

Expressing her gratitude to Governor Ramon V. Guico III, Pangasinan First Lady Maan Tuazon-Guico, Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino, and the entire provincial board, the beauty queen stated that it is her advocacy to promote the ‘cultural tourism’ of Pangasinan at the national level.

Miss Pearl of the Orient Philippines is a platform that represents the values and culture of the Filipino people through pageantry and charity initiatives, organized and produced by Oriental Beauty Philippines Charities Incorporated.

(Ruby F. Rayat, Joey Olimpo/PIMRO)

Lingayen, Pangasinan—The Province of Pangasinan’s commitment to excellence in health services and the healthcare system was again vividly reflected following its recognition as among Northern Luzon’s Best Newborn Screening Facilities in Region I in the 2nd Quarter of 2024.

Newborn Screening Facilities (NSFs) are the health facilities conducting sample collections for newborn screening.

Newborn screening is a special test that helps identify babies at risk for certain conditions. Before every baby goes home from the nursery, the baby’s blood sample is collected in five circles on the newborn screening card, called a dried blood spot (also called DBS) sample. The DBS is used to test for a specific group of conditions.

The top performing newborn screening facilities were Don Mariano C. Verzosa Memorial Hospital and Western Pangasinan District Hospital for Northern Luzon’s Best in Collection Age Levels 1 and 2 (Government Category); Eastern Pangasinan District Hospital and Mangatarem District Hospital for Northern Luzon’s Best in Dried Blood Spot Levels 1 and 2 (Government Category), respectively.

These are achievements or recognitions that reflect the team efforts of the provincial government, serving as an inspiration to push for quality health services for the well-being of more than 3 million Pangasinenses.

In addition to the province’s accolades, the following RHUs were likewise recognized for their significant contributions to newborn screening efforts in different categories:  Rural Health Unit (RHU)—San Nicolas and City Health Office—Alaminos City for Northern Luzon’s Best in Collection Age Primary Care—Government; Bani Birthing Home and Angeles Birthing Home in the town of Rosales for Northern Luzon’s Best in Collection Age Primary Care—Private; Senor Sto. Nino Hospital-Bayambang Branch for Northern Luzon’s Best in Transit Time Levels 1 and 2 (private); Region I Medical Center for Northern Luzon’s Best in Dried Blood Spot Level 3 (government); Nazareth General Hospital and Medical Centrum Dagupan for Northern Luzon’s Best in Dried Blood Spot Levels 1 and 2 (private); RHU-Asingan, RHU-Infanta, RHU-San Quintin, RHU 1-Bayambang, and RHU-Malasiqui Birthing Facility for Northern Luzon’s Best in Dried Blood Spot, respectively.

Gov. Guico earlier stated that his administration sets its sights on investing in health to make Pangasinan a healthy province.

(Chona C. Bugayong/PIMRO | Photos: Omar Cruz)

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—Preparations are underway for the upcoming four-day 8th International Conference for Children and Young Adult Librarianship (ICCYAL), slated for October 1-4, 2024, at the Sison Auditorium here.

The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, in partnership with the National Library of the Philippines (NLP), is set to host the conference anchored on the theme “ICCMI: Libraries and Community are Co-Partners in Advancing Exemplary Children and Young Adults Library Services.”

The conference aims to showcase children and young adult libraries within and outside the country that were able to adapt quickly and efficiently implement their programs and services geared towards addressing the current state of these libraries.

It also aims to advocate the important role of libraries for children and young adults in the advent of technology and service enhancements; develop and sustain connections and collaboration between library organizations and other institutions and stakeholders having similar or related visions and missions for children and young adult libraries to adapt quickly to the changing needs and demands of clients.

Further, it will serve as an opportunity to draw regular book allocation, particularly from the NLP’s affiliated public libraries, and establish a centralized platform where librarians and officials can personally select, inquire about, and engage with publishers, thereby consolidating a wide array of available materials for potential library acquisitions and recognizing deserving librarians, officers-in-charge, and library service.

In line with this, the provincial government, through the Provincial Library headed by PGADH/Provincial Librarian Ma, Cynthia Encarnita F. Vila, along with representatives of various provincial offices, met on August 1 for the initial preparations and tap offices for tasks and activities.

Concerned offices include the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), the Human Resource Management and Development Office (HRMDO), the Pangasinan Information and Media Relations Office (PIMRO), the Management Information Services Office (MISO), the Provincial Engineering Office (PEO), the Provincial Health Office (PHO), and the General Services Office (GSO).

Reneir Lois B. Enriquez, an administrative aide who presided over the meeting, disclosed that some 400 to 450 international delegates and participants from Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia, among others, are expected to attend.

(Chona C. Bugayong, Orlan Llemos/PIMRO)

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—Governor Ramon V. Guico III will sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Health (DOH)-Center for Health Development 1 for the implementation of the 2024 Healthy Settings Program for Healthy Communities.

This developed after the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP), in its regular session on July 29, approved a resolution that gives authority to the governor to enter into and sign a MOA.

Authored by SP Member Shiela Marie F. Baniqued, the resolution stated that the 2024 Healthy Settings Program for Healthy Communities will be implemented in Pangasinan through the provision of technical and financial assistance by the Department of Health (DOH) through the Center for Health Development 1, to assist the province in initiating and establishing health promotion programs.

“In the implementation of the 2024 Healthy Settings Program for Healthy Communities, it is the objective of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan and the DOH to further improve and sustain an efficient and effective health care delivery system in the province through health promotion initiatives designed to ensure that the environments wherein individuals live, learn, and work are promotive and protective of health,” the resolution disclosed.

Hence, the resolution cited that “the Ilocos Center for Health Development will be providing financial assistance of P1,499,990.00 to the Province of Pangasinan for the expansion of the ‘Key Assistance for Developing Adolescents (KADA) to various provincial government hospitals to address social barriers surrounding adolescent sexual and reproductive health through the establishment of a network that will strengthen existing adolescent-friendly health facilities.”

(Ruby F. Rayat/PIMRO)